Scottish Dream - 8 day tour

Day 2 - Glasgow - Loch Lomond - Ballachulish

Depart Glasgow and drive north along the banks of Loch Lomond with views of Ben Lomond and the towering Arrochar Alps. At Tarbet embark on a short Loch Lomond cruise to appreciate the beauty of this famous lake and admire panoramic views of the Highland scenery. Then travel across the mountains for time to explore the delightful town of Inveraray before visiting Inveraray Castle, which enjoyed a starring role in Downton Abbey. This imposing Campbell family home with four conical spires was built between 1746 and 1789. A guided tour will reveal the history of the family and region as you view the magnificent Armoury Hall and many fine rooms with tapestries, porcelains and portraits. Tour across extensive Rannoch Moor and to reach Glen Coe, a spectacular glen made famous by the Campbells' massacre of the Clan Macdonald in 1692. Spend tonight in Ballachulish by the banks of Loch Leven.

Overnight: Ballachulish Hotel/Isle of Glencoe Hotel, Ballachulish (or similar)

Day 3 - Ballachulish - Isle of Skye - Nairn

This morning head north via Fort William and take the "Road to the Isles” through some of Scotland's loveliest scenery, stopping for photos at the Glenfinnan Monument. At Mallaig cross by ferry to the Isle of Skye, sometimes called the "Misty Isle" due to the showers that are sometimes brought by Atlantic breezes. Enjoy a scenic drive through Sleat, known as the "Garden of Skye" then return to the mainland by bridge, stopping to visit picturesque Eilean Donan Castle. Travel through Glen Shiel to reach the beautiful shores of Loch Ness, famous for its monster. Continue to your hotel in Nairn, an impressive manor house property set in spacious grounds near the North Sea.

Overnight: The Newton Hotel, Nairn (or similar)

Day 4 - Nairn - Culloden Moor - Pitlochry

After breakfast make the short drive to reach the Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre. Learn about the battle which took place on 16th April 1746 when British Government troops defeated the army of Prince Charles Edward Stuart, better known as Bonnie Prince Charlie, in just one hour. The award-winning Visitor Centre shows the background to this bloody battle and you can walk around the moorland to see various memorials to the fallen. The outcome of the battle changed the traditional Highland way of life amongst the clans forever. Continue through majestic Highland scenery to Leault Farm for a demonstration of trained dogs herding sheep. Drive south through the towering peaks of the Grampian Mountains to reach your grand manor-style hotel near Pitlochry.

Overnight: Atholl Palace Hotel, Pitlochry (or similar) (2 nights)

Day 5 - Excursion to Blair Castle and Blair Athol Distillery

A short drive will bring you to Blair Castle, home of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl. Dating back to 1269, the castle has been transformed through the ages, from a strong medieval fortress to a Victorian castle in the baronial style. These influences can still be seen today across the 30 rooms on full display. You will learn about Mary, Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie and how a stay by Queen Victoria led to the formation of Europe's only private army, the Atholl Highlanders. Back in Pitlochry visit Blair Athol Distillery to learn about the simple ingredients and many steps involved in whisky making. Tour the facilities and sample a "wee dram” at the end of the tour. The rest of the day is free for you to relax in Pitlochry. Alternatively, return to the hotel to visit the spa; tour the hotel museum or spend time discovering the extensive gardens. 

Day 6 - Pitlochry - St Andrews - Edinburgh

Travel through Highland Perthshire to reach Glamis Castle, the fabled setting of “Macbeth” and childhood home of the late Queen Mother. This impressive castle is packed with priceless heirlooms, antiques and furnishings. Later travel to St Andrews, famed as the “Home of Golf,”. On arrival see the legendary Royal and Ancient Clubhouse and the Old Course. There is an extended stop so you can explore this historic town. On arrival in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, attend a traditional Scottish evening with dinner, including a taste of haggis, music and Highland dancing.

MacDonald Holyrood Hotel, Edinburgh (or similar) (2 nights)

Day 7 - Edinburgh City Tour and Edinburgh Castle

This morning explore Edinburgh on a sightseeing tour. Explore the grand squares and graceful mansions of the Georgian 200-year-old "New Town” then cross into the medieval “Old Town” to drive along the famous Royal Mile with its intriguing lanes and ancient townhouses. See Princes Street, the main shopping thoroughfare that separates the two areas then learn about the many prominent Scottish inventors, doctors and writers that called this beautiful city home. Finish your tour at impressive Edinburgh Castle where you can see historic buildings, the fabulous Scottish Crown Jewels and enjoy amazing views of Edinburgh. The balance of the day is free for independent exploring, shopping and dining. On 02 to 23 August departures enjoy attending the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at the Castle esplanade.

Day 8 - Tour Ends at Edinburgh Airport

Sadly our tour ends today. If you are flying home there are group transfers to Edinburgh International Airport which will arrive at 6:30 am or 9:00 am. A transfer to Glasgow Airport can be arranged in advance at extra cost.